Whether you were a domestic traveller or flying in from abroad, the last fortnight wasn't an ideal time for a trip of a lifetime in the US. Tourists arriving at the Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore or Yosemite were greeted with "closed" signs. Those camping in national parks were told they could stay for 48 hours, then had to move on. Residents working in tourism were even harder hit, as tourist hot spots became ghost towns. State parks were one of the few winners, as they remained open and attracted visitors who had been forced to change their plans.
Now that national parks, museums and attractions are open once again, some US travel specialists are offering deals to encourage new bookings after a fortnight of bad press. TrekAmerica is one such operator; the veteran company has launched a weekend flash sale, between now and midnight on Monday 21 October, with 20% off all North American tours.
With the Grand Canyon open again, they can resume their seven-day Western BLT tour (standing for "budget lodging tours", not a type of sandwich), which loops from Los Angeles to San Francisco, via the canyon's national park in Arizona. The deal price is from £540pp (saving £179), including transport, accommodation and some activities. Food, drinks and flights are not included, and travellers must set off between now and 31 December.
Alternatively, if you want to take the DIY approach, try these Arizona national park tips, which also includes information on camping permits. And if you're quick you can also take advantage of the Norwegian's flight deals: the airline has just announced three new long-haul routes between London Gatwick and New York, Los Angeles and Fort Lauderdale, starting in summer 2014, with returns from as little as £300.
